Isa Molde and Tots Carlos took charge for University of the Philippines, mowing down University of the East, 25-23, 25-20, 18-25, 25-17, in the UAAP Season 82 Women’s Volleyball Tournament, Saturday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
Molde led all scorers with 24 points built on 18 attacks and four blocks. Meanwhile, Carlos showcased her all-around game with 15 markers and nine digs.
The prolific scoring duo were again reliable, showing the way for UP’s breakthrough win following the deflating loss to the Ateneo Lady Eagles last Wednesday.
“We are happy about the win. The players fought, and it’s a good feeling as opposed to the first game we played. Today, we are happy for the win,” UP head coach Godfrey Okumu said.
Securing a two-set buffer, the Fighting Maroons faced tough resistance from the Lady Red Warriors, who snatched the third frame through the efforts of Mean Mendrez and Janine Lana.
Jolted to their senses, Molde and Carlos steered UP to a commanding 16-9 lead. The ladies in maroon and white then shifted to cruise control en route to their first win.
“I think in the fourth set we started playing our normal volleyball. We were able to pass well, we were able to serve well, and we dominated. We are very much in control of the game, we were aggressive. And I thank my team for that,” Okumu said.
“Usually the most aggressive team wins, and that’s worked for us today. Everything fell into place our passing, spiking and floor defense which was not there in the third set,” he added.
The Fighting Maroons were outgunned by the UE attackers with a 43-51 disparity in attacks. But the former more than made up for it in other scoring departments, putting up a 12-2 differential in blocks and 9-7 edge in aces.
UP evened its card at 1-1 while keeping UE winless in two matches.
On the other hand, Mendrez poured in a double-double effort of 21 points and 10 excellent digs that went down the drain. UE rookie Lana also had a stellar outing with 17 markers and nine receptions in a losing cause.
UP will try to build from this win in its next assignment against De La Salle University on Tuesday, March 10. Meanwhile, UE eyes a breakthrough when it faces Ateneo de Manila University on Wednesday, March 11. Both matches take place at the same venue.
